Cameras get WiFi in new Samsung, Nikon models

Technology giants Nikon and Samsung have unveiled new camera models with WiFi functionality, part of a new breed of wirelessly-connected snappers.

Today, Nikon announced the D3200 DSLR, a 24.2 megapixel camera that can take full HD video and is offered with an optional wireless dongle for transferring images from the camera to an Android smartphone or tablet.

However, Samsung has gone one further with its new generation range - the NX20, NX210 and NX1000 - which are claimed to be the world's first Wi-Fi-enabled compact system cameras.

The new models, replacing the NX11, NX100 and NX200, have 20.3-megapixel sensors across the board and come with built-in WiFi allowing users to connect to the web without any additional cards or devices.

All the cameras feature Samsung's trademark i-Function lenses, which allow the user to control various exposure settings via a button built into the barrel.

The headline feature of the new NX range is the Wi-Fi SMART features, meaning users can connect directly to social networks such as Facebook and Flickr, or email services and then send images to friends and family. This is done on the 3-inch VGA AMOLED display.

Images can also be shared between devices, such as wirelessly sharing to a Samsung smartphone or tablet using Mobile Link, as well as internet-enabled TVs.

The internet connection further means that users can increase their image storage by accessing Cloud-based services or by using Auto Backup.

Alongside the WiFi, the NX range comes with ten Smart filters for adjusting the look and feel of shots, as well as options for Panorama and 3D Panoramas.

Nick White, head of digital imaging, Samsung Electronics UK and Ireland, said: "The launch of the SMART NX Range marks an evolution in Samsung's camera offering.

"With the inclusion of built in Wi-Fi, sharing your pictures has never been so simple and with the NX image quality they will be worth sharing. We are delighted to be offering this innovation in technology to our customers."

The NX20 will be available for $1,099.99 in early May, with the NX210 following for $899.99 in mid-May. Information for the NX1000 will be announced at a later date.